CBS orders futuristic series from Steven Spielberg

CBS has given a straight-to-series order for Extant, a new serialized drama from Steven Spielberg that’ll bow next summer.

The network describes the project as a futuristic thriller about a female astronaut trying to reconnect with her family when she returns after a year in outer space. Her experiences lead to events that ultimately will change the course of human history.

CBS ordered 13 episodes.

“Extant is a very original concept with layers of humanity, mystery and surprise that reveal itself throughout the script,” said CBS Entertainment President Nina Tassler in a statement. “Our partnership with Amblin for Under the Dome showed that viewers respond to high-quality event programming in the summer. We look forward to building on that with Extant and offering CBS audiences another high-concept, unique event for summer television.”